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Long Island just got that much cooler.
The New York Islanders are getting set to unveil what they’re calling two pond hockey rinks at “The Park at UBS Arena” in Elmont for fans, recreational skaters and youth and adult hockey players alike.
The boards open to the public on Wednesday, Dec. 27, before the Isles face off against the division rival Pittsburgh Penguins. Former Islander, Hockey Hall of Famer and longtime Long Island resident Pat LaFontaine will be there as well to help christian the new rinks.
“This is the purest form of the sport and it’s great that this experience is coming to The Park at UBS Arena,” LaFontaine said in a statement.
One rink, called the Northwell Pond — as the buildout comes with the big support of Northwell Health — will consist of natural ice and will host 4×4 pond hockey tournaments for youth and adults.
The second rink, the Isles Pond, will be synthetic and should be accessible year-round, and offer skills training and other programs within the park.
90-minute public skate sessions will also be offered on both ponds, according to the Islanders, with skate rental options.
Here’s what else is in store for the new hockey park:
- A Beer Garden between the rinks, adorned with twinkle lights.
- Fire pits and lawn games. Guests can warm up with hot chocolate or BYOB, up to a 6-pack of cans per person. The Islanders also look forward to a growing an on-premise beer and alcohol menu, according to the announcement. (This will be the place to be before Islanders games, the team promises.)
- A VIP Igloo Garden featuring six, 12-foot wide heated and furnished igloos for fans.
- A variety of vintage carnival games with Islanders-themed prizes.
- A popup team store for Islanders merchandise and The Park at UBS apparel
- Rotating food trucks to offer guests a diverse culinary experience “at fan friendly prices.”
The park was also built in partnership with the New York Racing Association and USA Hockey.
Top: Courtesy rending of The Park at UBS Arena. (Credit: New York Islanders)
